While much of Southeast Asia is battling devastating floods, Indonesian authorities assure that Bali remains safe for travelers. However, caution is still advised, as the rainy season is once again showing its true nature.
Across the country, the weather is breaking records for the past 25 years. Sumatra and Aceh have experienced heavy rains with mudslides and floods. Over 300 people have died, thousands have been evacuated, and dozens are missing.
Three days after the state of emergency was announced, search and rescue services continue to clear debris, deliver food, water, and medicine, and reach cut-off areas — sometimes only by air.
The meteorological agency BMKG has issued a warning about tropical cyclone Senyar, which is moving towards Sumatra and Malaysia. It will not directly hit Bali but will bring rain, wind, and increased risk of flooding, falling trees, and landslides. Until December 10, 2025, Bali and nearby areas are on special readiness alert. The warnings are related to the remnants of cyclone Senyar and the overall rainy season.
Amidst the national disaster, Bali authorities are holding emergency meetings to discuss the lessons learned from the Sumatra tragedies and how to further improve safety on the island.
Badung police have already entered a state of heightened readiness. Deputy Police Chief I Gede Suarmava stated: “We ask residents and tourists to be more cautious. Avoid danger zones, don’t walk in riverbeds after rain, and drive with extra care.”
In case of emergencies, mobile rescue teams are on standby across the island, and the police receive updated forecasts from BMKG every two hours.
Important Information for Tourists:
- Bali is not in the tropical cyclone zone.
- The island is open and safe, but the forecast predicts heavy rain.
- Risks are higher in river valleys, ravines, and forest trails, where landslides and falling trees are possible.
- Drivers should exercise extra caution. If driving in the rain, keep your speed low; wet, slippery asphalt and falling branches are common 'surprises' of the rainy season, and seemingly harmless puddles are often deeper than they appear.
